Comedy is a general term applied to any play or film that has a happy ending--even if the play or film is not funny. There are actually several kinds of comedies. THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER falls under the categories of Comedy of Manners and Satire.

• Sentimental Comedy: A situational comedy, lighter subjects, treated with humor, emphasis on character and plot. (e.g. WHEN HARRY MET SALLY, SLEEPLESS IN SEATTLE)
  
  
• Farce or "low comedy." Emphasis on plot, suggestive or bawdy jokes, physical humor. (e.g. THE THREE STOOGES, AIRPLANE)
  
  
• Theater of the Absurd: Usually defined by underlying theme of absurdity or meaninglessness of life. (e.g. THE BALD SOPRANO, WAITING FOR GODOT)
  
  
• Comedy of Manners (Screwball comedy): "High comedy", emphasis on clever and witty dialogue, characters usually members of the upper class. (e.g. THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER, THE PHILADELPHIA STORY, FOUR WEDDINGS AND A FUNERAL)
  
  
• Satire: Writer makes fun of social customs or current fashions to change current thought or behavior, or just for fun. (e.g. the play "The Imaginary Invalid," and the films THE MAN WHO CAME TO DINNER, WAG THE DOG, PRIMARY COLORS)
  
  
• Parody: A famous song, play or film is recreated in a humorous way; also a form of satire. (e.g. SCROOGE, BRADY BUNCH)
  
  
• Musical Comedy: Dialogue combined with songs and dances integrated into the action. (e.g. plays "Oklahoma!" and "Kiss Me Kate")